Mohammad Amir backs Babar Azam as criticism intensifies after Test win

Mohammad Amir, Pakistan’s left-arm pacer, has publicly supported former national team captain Babar Azam, who is facing criticism following Pakistan's long-awaited Test victory at home.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made significant changes in the second Test against England, notably dropping Azam, star fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, and wicket-keeper Sarfraz Ahmed.

Babar Azam has struggled to score more than fifty runs in Test cricket since December 2022.

In his absence, Pakistan clinched their first home Test victory since February 2021, defeating England by 152 runs at the Multan International Cricket Stadium, thanks to a strong spin attack.

Kamran Ghulam, who replaced Azam, shone with a century on debut, further fuelling social media trolls who claimed Pakistan only succeeded after the star batter was dropped.

This criticism prompted Amir, who has previously been a vocal critic of Azam, to speak out in his defence.

“Please stop with these petty talks that Babar was not in the team, that is why we won. We won because of better strategy and took advantage of playing on home ground,” Amir stated on X, formerly Twitter.

He emphasised the importance of constructive dialogue about player performance, urging fans to refrain from personal attacks.

“Please do not get personal with your players. Criticise their performance, but avoid personal remarks,” he added, advocating for a more supportive approach towards athletes.